What the New Snapchat Storage Policy Means for You
Snapchat to charge users storing over 5GB of photos and videos -this is the big news shaking up the app’s global community. The company has officially announced that it will introduce a 5 GB free limit for the Memories feature, after which users will have to pay for additional cloud storage.
This change has raised major questions among users who rely on Snapchat to store years of Snaps and Stories. Let’s break down exactly what’s changing, why it’s happening, who it affects, and how to protect your data before the new rule costs you money.
What Is Snapchat Memories?
Snapchat Memories is a built-in cloud feature that allows users to save Snaps, Stories, and videos directly inside the app instead of the phone gallery. Since 2016, it has become a personal digital diary for millions.
Each time you hit “Save to Memories,” your photo or video is uploaded to Snapchat’s cloud. Over time, this can add up to gigabytes of data per user. With Snapchat now charging users for storage beyond 5 GB, the platform is redefining what “free” really means.
The New 5 GB Storage Limit
According to Snapchat’s official newsroom, all users now get 5 GB of free Memories storage. Once that limit is reached, users will need to delete old content, export their data, or subscribe to a paid plan.
Snapchat’s New Paid Plans
| Plan | Storage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Free Tier | 5 GB | Default for all accounts |
| Premium Plan 1 | 100 GB | Available through Snapchat+ |
| Premium Plan 2 | 250 GB | Mid-level upgrade |
| Platinum Plan | 5 TB | High-end for creators or brands |
There’s also a 12-month grace period for users who already exceed the limit. You can still access your Memories during this time, but after that, Snapchat will require you to upgrade or risk losing access to older content.
Why Is Snapchat Charging Users Now?
Snapchat says the change is due to rising storage and server costs. Since the launch of Memories in 2016, users have collectively saved over one trillion photos and videos — an enormous amount of data to host, back up, and secure.
The company explained that maintaining petabytes of user data is extremely expensive. By introducing storage tiers, Snapchat is following in the footsteps of Google Photos, Apple iCloud, and Amazon Photos, which all limit free storage.
In short: free storage is no longer sustainable, and Snapchat wants to recover costs while offering flexibility for power users.
Who Will Be Affected
Not everyone needs to panic. For most users, 5 GB is plenty — especially if you only save highlights or short clips.
However, you’ll be affected if:
- You have years of saved Memories (especially HD videos).
- You use Snapchat as your main photo backup app.
- You post and save daily Stories for months or years.
Once your total cloud storage crosses 5 GB, Snapchat will alert you through notifications and in-app messages.
What Happens If You Don’t Upgrade
If you exceed 5 GB and don’t upgrade:
- Snapchat will stop syncing new Memories to the cloud.
- You’ll still be able to view old content during the grace period.
- After that period, Snapchat may delete unbacked content if no action is taken.
To avoid this, you can either delete old content, back it up externally, or purchase a paid storage plan.
How to Check Your Snapchat Storage Usage
- Open Snapchat → tap your Bitmoji profile.
- Tap Settings → Memories → Cloud Storage.
- You’ll see your total usage and the percentage of the 5 GB limit used.
If you’re under the limit, relax. If you’re close to it, start cleaning up or preparing to back up your content.
How to Save Your Memories Without Paying
You can protect your content without spending money.
✅ Option 1: Export to Your Device
- Open Memories → Select Snaps → Export → Save to Camera Roll.
- This moves your files from Snapchat’s servers to your local gallery.
- You can then upload them to Google Photos, iCloud, or Dropbox.
✅ Option 2: Use Snapchat’s “My Data” Download Tool
- Visit accounts.snapchat.com → My Data.
- Request a full export of your Memories archive.
- You’ll get an email link to download everything in bulk.
✅ Option 3: Regular Cleanup
Delete unneeded Snaps, duplicates, and old videos inside Memories. Doing this monthly keeps you comfortably below 5 GB.
Global Rollout and Regional Pricing
Snapchat is rolling out this update worldwide throughout 2025.
- In the U.S. and U.K., storage plans range from $0.99 – $3.99 per month.
- In Nepal and South Asia, regional pricing will appear soon in the app under the Cloud Storage section once rollout completes.
- Some users may not yet see the “Upgrade Storage” banner — that’s normal during gradual deployment.
How Snapchat Compares to Other Services
| Platform | Free Storage | Paid Upgrade | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snapchat Memories | 5 GB | Up to 5 TB | ~$0.99 / mo |
| Google Photos | 15 GB (shared) | 100 GB + tiers | ~$1.99 / mo |
| Apple iCloud | 5 GB | 50 GB – 2 TB | ~$0.99 / mo |
| Amazon Photos | 5 GB | Unlimited Photos (Prime) | Included in Prime |
Snapchat’s pricing aligns closely with competitors -only the Memories context makes it feel new to users.
Public Reaction
Online, users are divided. Some argue this update is “unfair,” claiming that Snapchat Memories has always been free and that charging feels like a betrayal. Others accept that the cost of cloud infrastructure makes this step unavoidable.
In truth, this move makes Snapchat more sustainable long-term -but users who have relied on it for years should now take control of their data instead of leaving it entirely in Snapchat’s hands.
Pro Tips to Avoid Running Out of Space
- Clear cache monthly: Settings → Clear Data → Clear Cache.
- Don’t auto-save every Snap or Story.
- Export important content before you hit 5 GB.
- Use external cloud services for archives.
- Monitor usage regularly via Cloud Storage dashboard.
Final Thoughts
Snapchat’s decision to charge users storing over 5 GB of photos and videos under its Memories feature is a major shift — one that balances convenience with business reality.
Here’s your quick summary:
- Free 5 GB limit stays for casual users.
- Paid tiers open for heavy users.
- Back up or pay before the grace period ends.
For now, make it a priority to export your best Snaps, clean your Memories, and stay below 5 GB to keep Snapchat free and fast. Cloud space isn’t infinite — and Snapchat just reminded us of that.